Final answer:
The correct option that describes the condition resulting from bone-on-bone contact due to the loss of articular cartilage is a) Arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bone-on-bone contact that results in joint pain and stiffness from a loss of articular cartilage is a condition known as osteoarthritis (OA). This joint disease occurs as the articular cartilage, which covers the bone surfaces at synovial joints, breaks down due to factors like aging, joint injury, physical labor, certain sports, and being overweight. Over time, the cartilage becomes thinner, leading to increased bone pressure and inflammation that causes joint stiffness and pain. Treatments can help alleviate the pain and include lifestyle changes, medications, and possibly joint replacement surgery in severe cases.
The correct option is a) Arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis, which causes pain and stiffness from loss of articular cartilage.